Barcelona Mum

What is your name, age, where do you live and how long have you lived in Sitges?
Alison Jones. 38. Living in Olivella for 11 months.

Do work, and if so what do you do?
Beauty Therapist and can work from home.

What nationality are you and your partner?
British

How many children do you have and what are their names and ages?
Alexandra 6 years and William 4 years

How did you find the process of relocating to Sitges with your children (if relevant)?
We had a house here already so at least there was no stress with finding somewhere to live. Schools were little difficult so I took a translater with me to help. I didn't use a relocation company, but have an accountant in Barcelona who offers services to help with NIE numbers, pardro certificate. I just worked out the rest eg Doctors, hospitals etc. All quite hard work as I don't speak any Spanish, frustrating as it is the Spanish system and everything takes a lot of paperwork. I have learned to be 'tranquilo'!

How well integrated would you say you and your children are?
We have put the kids into the local Catalan school and are trying hard to fit in. The kids are learning the language fast so are making friends - both English and Spanish. I have a couple of Spanish friends although they are new to Catalunya also. I wouldn't say I have integrated yet. Maybe once I can speak Spanish to the mums at school then it will get easier.

What language do you speak to your children?
English and a little Swedish.

What has your impression been of childcare and education in Sitges so far? Have you any advice for anyone moving here in regards to education? How did you choose the school the children are at now? Are you happy with it and what was the process of applying?
The school in Olivella were very accomodating and helpful. My son has lots of severe food allergies and they have taken this on with learning more about his needs and medication should he need it. I have been impressed. I'm sure the school has it's faults but, not understanding the language I don't get involved with the politics of the school. My children are progressing well and are happy so that is a good indicator for me. I chose the school as it was our local school and I wanted my children to fit into the local community and learn the language. The only advice I can offer to other parents is if you are choosing a local/spanish school, take a translater with you if need be, so you can ask lots of questions about the school and it's philosophy. Are you here long or short term so you can decide if an International school may be better. Don't forget, children adapt so quickly so never feel scared that a foreign school may be scary for them - it is, but for such a short time. They are so much happier and less frustrated when they can understand what's going on around them and they can make friends in the parks etc.To apply for a school you will need to arrange an appointment to meet the Principle and fill in lots of paperwork. Get a clear understanding of everything you need to take with you for that interview - paperwork is key here!!

How do you rate the amenities available for parents and children in Sitges?
The cafes and restaurants are all great with the kids. We love the beach of course and the play area next to Picnic. There is not so much to do there in the winter with the children - thank god it's short! We generally promenade with kids on skates or bikes.

Where you live, how good are facilities for children (shops,restaurants, activities etc)?
In Olivella you have to have a car unless you live in Mas Mila near the school and shops. The amenities are improving here and soon we will have a choice of more shops on our doorstep. The best restaurant is Les Piques in Can Suria. Best Steak and Calcots ever! Very impressed with service and the owner is so passionate about his food it's a pleasure to eat there. They welcome families and speak english. We have a good bakery/patisserie now and a lovely man who works in the Farmacia - also speaks good english. There are play areas for the children - Ganxo for football,roller skating etc and play area in Mas Mila. In the summer there is a great pool in Mas Mestre. Great meeting point for international mums.

What do you think are the main advantages and disadvantages of being a parent from the International Community living in Sitges?
I believe a mix of nationalities brings richness into a coutry so that will always be a good advantage. I love meeting like minded people who have decided to move abroad and live this life. Life is never dull! Disadvantages are the Catalan is hard to speak when you first arrive as you so want to speak Castillion. Living in Olivella it is quite isolating and you have to drive out if you want a bit of life. I haven't found an international group in Sitges. You have Barcelona Women's clubs but nothing more local.

Is there anything you think would improve children´s lives in Sitges?
Maybe a park with shade, or an indoor play area. Hard to tell as my children are so young and require less as happy to be with just mummy and daddy!

What do you wish you had been told before you came to Sitges?
To lock car doors so no one can break in and steal your things! Be aware of people as it's so easy to think everyone is nice and friendly. My guard was down when I first got here. Moving to the sun, not understanding what's going on around me made me more vulnerable at first. It's good to be aware as robbing/stealing is so rife here. I also wish I had waited before I bought my house. Estate Agents are very keen/desperate especially at the moment to sell. It's good to wait, bide your time, have a good look around and not feel pressurized into purchasing anything until you are very ready to commit.
Also, It would have been great to have a list of schools on the internet like they do in the UK. This could give some information on the school, performance, location. This would give us great insight before we move here as I could not achieve anything until I moved here.

What advice would you give for anyone thinking of relocating to Sitges with children?
Use a good relocation agent if you can to help with schools, housing, papers required to exist here, doctors, local hospital etc. Think about where you need to be to suit journey to school, shops and if you want to be near life. Sitges can get very busy in the summer with difficult parking and lots of noise.

What couldn´t you live without in Sitges?
The Cafes!!

What could you live without?!
Shops closing between 2-5pm!

 

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